Norwich stream producing soapy foam, EPA investigating

ZANESVILLE - The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency is investigating foam coming from a stream near Norwich.

An additive used in soap-making present in the water is generating foam as the water is churned and agitated. The foam is then floating across a nearby field and across Interstate 70, according to Jeff Jadwin, director of the Muskingum County Emergency Management Agency.

How the substance entered the stream is still unknown, Jadwin said. EPA tests show the substance is not affecting pH levels or aquatic life in the water, and is not harmful to citizens.

"It's just a nuisance at this point," he said.

This is the second time in recent weeks foam has been seen crossing I-70.

EPA crews are attempting to pump down one of the storm water management ponds in the area to reduce the flow of the water and the subsequent creation of foam bubbles.

The water will be stored in tanks until a plan for disposal is completed, an Ohio EPA spokesperson told the Times Recorder.

The stream leads to Salt Creek, which dumps into the Muskingum River just below Duncan Falls, Jadwin said.